Culture Shock - Stages, Symptoms, and Treatment

Introduction

Culture refers to the various practices found in human societies, beliefs, and customs. People from different parts of the world follow different cultures. As people migrate to different countries, they experience culture shock due to the new changes and beliefs to which they are not previously exposed. Culture shock is known to occur to every individual at some point in their life. It could be when they travel, migrate for work, or study at different schools. Some individuals are capable of overcoming this change in a short span of time, while others may find it difficult to adapt to the new culture. With constant efforts and socializing, adapting to a new culture is feasible. However, most people tire or experience fatigue from constantly making new efforts on a daily basis. This may result in symptoms like:

1. Sadness.

2. Irritation.

3. Homesickness.

Culture shock is just a temporary psychological condition and can be overcome.

What Is Culture Shock?

The feeling of uncertainty, anxiety, and confusion in individuals who have moved or migrated to different countries for educational or professional purposes refers to culture shock. It is quite normal for individuals to feel unfamiliar with a new environment. However, culture shock could also occur when individuals move to different cities for retirement. During culture shock, an individual may face changes in their normal habitat like different weather, language, food, and local customs.

What Are the Symptoms of Culture Shock?

During a cultural shock, an individual may experience a variety of symptoms like:

• Disorientation.

• Lack of concentration.

• Sadness.

• Irritability.

• Eating disturbances.

• Feeling isolated or lonely.

• Disturbed sleep.

• Paranoia (mistrust).

What Are the Different Stages of Culture Shock?

There are different stages of culture shock that an individual experiences which are listed below:

• The Honeymoon Stage - It is the first and foremost stage of culture shock. In this phase most individuals are thrilled to be associated with a new environment. In the case of a short stay, the excitement may explain the entire experience. People on long term stays may soon come to the end of the honeymoon stage.

• The Frustration Stage - Adapting to a new environment has its own challenges. Individuals may experience constant irritation and disorientation when trying to adapt to a new environment. Generally fatigue sets in, which could be due to misunderstanding of other people and their activities. So individuals feel overwhelmed by the new culture especially if there are any language barriers. So performing each and every task may require dependence on local bodies, which could make the individual uncomfortable and affect their independence. A few symptoms are fatigue, irritation, depression, and feeling lost.

The difficulty in communicating and interpreting the words of others and trying hard to make people understand oneself is the primary cause of frustration. This is the most difficult period of cultural shock as it demands adapting to different cultures. Most people may give up at this stage if they do not enjoy the changes.

The frustration stage can be easily explained by the example of an international student living abroad. Although the individual is aware of the great educational opportunities, there is still a sense of anger and anxiety which may result in withdrawal from making new friends. So they may contemplate returning home as the better solution. Some individuals may additionally experience eating and sleeping disorders, which could increase homesickness.

• The Adaptation Stage - During this stage, individuals may feel welcomed to their new surroundings and the level of frustration may gradually decrease. Although it could be difficult to understand the cultural cues, becoming more familiar with the people and the place may ease the mind.

• The Acceptance Stage - The acceptance stage is also known as the recovery stage. In this stage, the beliefs and attitudes to the new surroundings gradually change and people start enjoying the lifestyle. It also boosts the self-confidence of an individual and helps overcome obstacles from the frustration stage. Socializing and spending time with people may help the individual stay relaxed and contribute to a healthy and happy life. Most individuals experience growth and changes at this stage of cultural shock. Although new beliefs and attitudes are not completely understood, realization of the changes occurring helps to thrive well in the new surroundings.

Is Culture Shock a Problem?

Culture shock is not always a problem. It is common for people to experience culture shock during their travels or when they relocate to a new place. The process of adapting to a new environment could be challenging as it requires more effort. However, in the course of time, people get accustomed to the new place and interact with local people, making new friends..

How to Overcome Culture Shock?

Time and attitude play an important role in overcoming culture shock. Every culture has its unique personality trait. Experiencing it well helps an individual evolve over time. A few tips to overcome culture shock are listed below:

• Staying open minded and learning about the new country and observing new changes.

• Understanding the cultural differences, respecting the values of others and communicating effectively.

• Avoiding constant comparison with one’s home and current surroundings, may not help much and often leads to frustration.

• Noting down the changes and experiences to add flavors to the positive aspect of the new culture.

• Being more active and socializing with local people, to see the beauty of the surroundings in different perspectives.

• Expressing honest feelings of being confused and disoriented.

• Seeking help during initial and difficult times.

• Sharing cultural backgrounds and communicating about the different cultures.

Conclusion

Culture shock is the difference in the practices and beliefs that an individual experiences in different circumstances. It is common to expect such changes, but some individuals may have a difficult time accepting such change. Cultural shock causes symptoms like fatigue, irritation, sadness, disorientation, and loneliness. Culture shock can be overcome by seeking help, making new friends, and engaging in social activities. Change occurs at some point in life, accepting and adapting to the changes will help to cope with the culture shock.